Pittsburgh is renowned as one of the premier regions for golf enthusiasts. The area boasts an impressive array of world-class private clubs, including Oakmont Country Club, Fox Chapel Golf Club, Laurel Valley Golf Club, Pittsburgh Field Club, St. Clair Country Club, Sewickley Heights Golf Club, The Club at Nevillewood, Edgewood Country Club, and Allegheny Country Club, among others. Playing at any of these esteemed clubs guarantees an exceptional day of golf in the Pittsburgh region.
The 17th hole at Fox Chapel Golf Club in Fox Chapel, Pennsylvania on Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023. (Copyright USGA/Fred Vuich)
If money is no object and you seek the very best, we highly recommend taking a ride about an hour south of Pittsburgh to the rolling hills of the Laurel Highlands. Here, you can experience one of the world’s premier resorts: Nemacolin Resort in Farmington, PA. This exclusive resort requires you to be either a paying guest or a member to enjoy its exceptional amenities.
For your stay, you can choose from accommodations such as The Chateau, Falling Rock, The Grand Lodge, Townhomes, or Estates. The resort boasts two phenomenal golf courses, Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock. Beyond golf, Nemacolin offers a plethora of extraordinary amenities, more than we can list in this article, ensuring a luxurious and unforgettable experience.
late afternoon light on the 9th hole of the Shepherd’s Rock golf course at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort with the Falling Rock hotel to the left. Shepherd’s Rock which was designed by Tim Liddy and Pete Dye recently opened to raved reviews.
For a more economical option combining golf and lodging, consider Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, WV. Although it’s not in Pennsylvania, it’s only about an hour’s drive from Pittsburgh. The resort features two excellent courses: the Jones and Palmer courses. Oglebay offers a fun experience with a variety of great dining options.
As for public golf courses, surprisingly, there are not many options in Allegheny County, where Pittsburgh is located. However, if you’re willing to travel a bit, you can find some excellent spots. Northwest of Pittsburgh, you’ll discover one of the finest golf courses anywhere: Olde Stonewall in Ellwood City, PA. While it is on the expensive side, it is well worth the cost.
For those looking for more economical options with a charming “mom and pop” vibe, consider Birdsfoot, Conley’s Resort, and Strawberry Ridge, which are situated a little north of Pittsburgh. These courses provide a delightful and budget-friendly golfing experience.
East of Pittsburgh, you’ll find two excellent places to play golf: Totteridge and Chestnut Ridge Golf Resort. Totteridge offers a fun layout with great conditions, making it a favorite among golfers. Chestnut Ridge Golf Resort features two courses: Tom’s Run and the Chestnut Ridge Course, both providing enjoyable and challenging experiences.
When traveling southwest from Pittsburgh, you’ll discover Lindenwood Golf Club, a fantastic course with 27 holes. Known for its friendly staff, good food, and consistently great course conditions, it’s a must-visit.
